Universal DC power adaptor

ABSTRACT

A universal DC power adaptor for a PRC-148 radio, a PRC-152 radio, a Handheld ISR Transceiver, and similar devices and a method of using the same, is disclosed. The universal DC power adaptor includes mounting and locking features that are common to both the PRC-148 radio and the PRC-152 radio. The universal DC power adaptor further includes certain mounting and locking features that are unique to the PRC-148 radio and other mounting and locking features that are unique to the PRC-152 radio. The universal DC power adaptor also provides an output voltage suitable for both the PRC-148 and PRC-152 radios. Such features also are compatible with the Handheld ISR Transceiver, making the universal DC power adaptor compatible with the ISR Transceiver as well. Additionally, the universal DC power adaptor includes programmable control electronics.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to direct current (DC) poweradaptors and, more particularly, to a universal DC power adaptor for aHandheld Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)Transceiver, a PRC-148 radio, and a PRC-152 radio, and a method of usingsame.

2. Description of the Prior Art

It is generally known in the prior part to provide systems and methodsof providing DC power.

Prior art patent documents including the following:

U.S. Pat. No. 3,825,999 for method of connecting electrical component byinventor Rubey, filed Dec. 26, 1972 and issued Jul. 30, 1974, isdirected to a circuit board employing solder pads plated onto thereverse side of an insulative board in an orthogonal array and connectedto aligned conductive areas on the obverse side by plated-through holes.Wire guides including upstanding fingers mount on the reverse side ofthe board with conductive pins from electrical components extendingthrough the holes in the board from the obverse side to the reverseside. Insulated wire is threaded around the pins of the electricalcomponents and guide in accordance with a predetermined pattern ofcomponent interconnections. For interconnections between points on theboard, wire is threaded substantially orthogonally. Where wire is to besevered, it is threaded angularly relative to the orthogonal array.After wire threading, the wire is selectively soldered to contact areaswhile evaporating locally the insulation thereon and component pins aresoldered in plated-through holes. All angularly arrayed segments of thewire are cut and loose portions removed leaving only wire segments whichform desired interconnections.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,714,439 for electrical connector by inventors Marabotto,et al., filed Jul. 3, 1986 and issued Dec. 22, 1987, is directed to anelectrical connector for making electrical connection to a matingconnector. The connector includes a body portion that has asubstantially cylindrical cavity. A contact block is located in thecavity and carries three contacts. A spring engages the contact blockfor applying biasing force to the contact block and contacts forproviding electrical connection of the contacts to the mating connector.A peripheral resilient seal is located above the contact block andprovides a seal between the contact block and a cylindrical cavity. Theperipheral seal includes a bead portion that engages the matingconnector for providing a water seal about the contacts.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,232,769 for passive battery discharge device by inventorPaczkowski, filed Jun. 19, 2009 and issued Jul. 31, 2012, is directed toa passive battery discharge apparatus located within a cap. The capextends over battery contacts to be discharged. The discharge apparatusincludes a conductive material with specified volumetric resistivityproperties that is formed into a pad. The cap is positioned over thecontacts so that the pad touches and spans between the contacts to bedischarged. A spring insures good contact between the pad and thebattery contacts. A metal heat sink provides added thermal control. Thedischarge apparatus provides an economical solution to safely transportbatteries that are beyond their useful service life by avoiding circuitcomponents in favor of conductive elastomers or conductive foams.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,240,651 for universal DC power adaptor by inventorThiel, filed Jan. 28, 2014 and issued Jan. 19, 2016, is directed to auniversal DC power adaptor for a PRC-148 radio, a PRC-152 radio, and aHandheld ISR Transceiver, and a method of using same, is disclosed. Theuniversal DC power adaptor includes mounting and locking features thatare common to both the PRC-148 radio and the PRC-152 radio. Theuniversal DC power adaptor further includes certain mounting and lockingfeatures that are unique to the PRC-148 radio and other mounting andlocking features that are unique to the PRC-152 radio. The universal DCpower adaptor also provides an output voltage suitable for both thePRC-148 and PRC-152 radios. Such features also are compatible with theHandheld ISR Transceiver, making the universal DC power adaptorcompatible with the ISR Transceiver as well. Additionally, the universalDC power adaptor includes programmable control electronics.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a universal DC power adaptor.

It is an object of this invention to provide a DC power adaptor thatworks for a plurality of electrical devices, particularly, electricaldevices used in military operations.

In one embodiment, the present invention includes a direct current (DC)power adaptor including an adaptor plate assembly, an adaptor housing,and a layer of heat-shielding or blocking, heat-dissipating and/or heatsignature-reducing material, wherein the adaptor plate assembly includesan adaptor plate, at least one alignment component, at least one inputconnector, and at least one voltage pin, wherein the adaptor plateassembly is mounted to the adaptor housing, wherein the adaptor plateassembly is configured to receive a radio, wherein the adaptor housingincludes control electronics, wherein the control electronics include aprinted circuit board (PCB), and wherein the PCB is electricallyconnected to the at least one voltage pin, wherein the PCB iselectrically connected to the at least one input connector via at leastone cable, wherein the at least one input connector is configured toconnect to a DC power source, and wherein the layer of heat-shielding orblocking, heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material isfunctionally positioned between the adaptor plate assembly and thecontrol electronics.

In another embodiment, the present invention includes a direct current(DC) power adaptor including an adaptor plate assembly, an adaptorhousing, and a layer of heat-shielding or blocking, heat-dissipatingand/or heat signature-reducing material, wherein the adaptor plateassembly includes an adaptor plate, at least one alignment component, atleast one input connector, and at least one voltage pin, wherein theadaptor plate assembly is mounted to the adaptor housing, wherein theadaptor plate assembly is configured to receive a radio, wherein the atleast one alignment component is a mating plate, wherein the matingplate is configured to mate with a corresponding component on the radio,wherein the adaptor housing includes control electronics, wherein thecontrol electronics include a printed circuit board (PCB) and a powerconditioning module, and wherein the PCB is electrically connected tothe at least one voltage pin, wherein the PCB is electrically connectedto the at least one input connector via at least one cable, wherein thepower conditioning module is configured to receive an input voltage, andwherein the power conditioning module is further configured to supply anoutput voltage, wherein the at least one input connector is configuredto connect to a DC power source, and wherein the layer of heat-shieldingor blocking, heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material isfunctionally positioned between the adaptor plate assembly and thecontrol electronics.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention includes a directcurrent (DC) power adaptor including an adaptor plate assembly, anadaptor housing, and a layer of heat-shielding or blocking,heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material, wherein theadaptor plate assembly includes an adaptor plate, at least one alignmentcomponent, at least one input connector, and at least one voltage pin,wherein the adaptor plate assembly is mounted to the adaptor housing,wherein the adaptor plate assembly is configured to receive a radio,wherein the at least one alignment component is a mating plate, whereinthe mating plate is configured to mate with a corresponding component onthe radio, wherein the adaptor housing includes control electronics,wherein the control electronics include a printed circuit board (PCB), avoltage sensing circuit, and a communications interface, and wherein thePCB is electrically connected to the at least one voltage pin, whereinthe PCB is electrically connected to the at least one input connectorvia at least one cable, wherein the at least one input connector isconfigured to connect to a DC power source, wherein the communicationsinterface is configured to communicate information related to a state ofcharge of the DC power source to a network, and wherein the layer ofheat-shielding or blocking, heat-dissipating and/or heatsignature-reducing material is functionally positioned between theadaptor plate assembly and the control electronics.

These and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent tothose skilled in the art after a reading of the following description ofthe preferred embodiment when considered with the drawings, as theysupport the claimed invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a universal DC power adaptor for theHandheld ISR Transceiver, PRC-148 radio, and PRC-152 radio according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates one example of a side view of the universal DC poweradaptor in a disassembled state.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the adaptor plateassembly of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 4 illustrates another perspective view of a portion of the adaptorplate assembly of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the base portion of the PRC-152radio that mounts to the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the base portion of the PRC-148radio that mounts to the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 7 illustrates an angled perspective view of an example of theadaptor plate of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 8A illustrates a top perspective view of an example of the adaptorplate of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 8B illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example of the adaptorplate of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 8C illustrates a side perspective view of an example of the adaptorplate of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 8D illustrates an end perspective view of an example of the adaptorplate of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 8E illustrates a bottom perspective view of an example of theadaptor plate of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 9 illustrates a top perspective view of the adaptor plate of theuniversal DC power adaptor according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the adaptor plate of theuniversal DC power adaptor according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 11 illustrates more details of the side perspective view of anexample of the adaptor plate of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 12 illustrates more details of the end perspective view of anexample of the adaptor plate of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 13 illustrates more details of the bottom perspective view of anexample of the adaptor plate of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 14 illustrates an angled perspective view of an example of theadaptor housing of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 15 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an example of theadaptor housing of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 16 illustrates an end perspective view of an example of the adaptorhousing of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 17 illustrates a cross-section view of an example of the adaptorhousing of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 18 illustrates an angled perspective view of another example of theadaptor housing of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 19 illustrates a bottom perspective view of another example of theadaptor housing of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 20 illustrates a cross-section view of another example of theadaptor housing of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 21 illustrates a detailed view of another example of the adaptorhousing of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 22 illustrates one example of a gasket for the universal DC poweradaptor.

FIG. 23 illustrates one example of a side view of the universal DC poweradaptor in a disassembled state.

FIG. 24 illustrates an example of a flexible omnidirectional leadaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 illustrates an example of a universal DC power adaptor with auniversal serial bus (USB) receptacle.

FIG. 26 illustrates a block diagram of an example of the controlelectronics of the universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 27 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of the controlelectronics for a state of charge indicator incorporated into theuniversal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 28 illustrates a block diagram of an example of an SOC system thatincludes a mobile application for use with a universal DC power adaptor.

FIG. 29 illustrates a block diagram of an example of control electronicsof the universal DC power adaptor that is capable of communicating withthe SOC mobile application.

FIG. 30 illustrates a block diagram of another example of controlelectronics of the universal DC power adaptor that is capable ofcommunicating with the SOC mobile application.

FIG. 31 illustrates a flow diagram of an example of a method of usingthe universal DC power adaptor for the Handheld ISR Transceiver, PRC-148radio, and PRC-152 radio.

FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram of a system of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is generally directed to a universal DC poweradaptor.

In one embodiment, the present invention includes a direct current (DC)power adaptor including an adaptor plate assembly, an adaptor housing,and a layer of heat-shielding or blocking, heat-dissipating and/or heatsignature-reducing material, wherein the adaptor plate assembly includesan adaptor plate, at least one alignment component, at least one inputconnector, and at least one voltage pin, wherein the adaptor plateassembly is mounted to the adaptor housing, wherein the adaptor plateassembly is configured to receive a radio, wherein the adaptor housingincludes control electronics, wherein the control electronics include aprinted circuit board (PCB), and wherein the PCB is electricallyconnected to the at least one voltage pin, wherein the PCB iselectrically connected to the at least one input connector via at leastone cable, wherein the at least one input connector is configured toconnect to a DC power source, and wherein the layer of heat-shielding orblocking, heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material isfunctionally positioned between the adaptor plate assembly and thecontrol electronics.

In another embodiment, the present invention includes a direct current(DC) power adaptor including an adaptor plate assembly, an adaptorhousing, and a layer of heat-shielding or blocking, heat-dissipatingand/or heat signature-reducing material, wherein the adaptor plateassembly includes an adaptor plate, at least one alignment component, atleast one input connector, and at least one voltage pin, wherein theadaptor plate assembly is mounted to the adaptor housing, wherein theadaptor plate assembly is configured to receive a radio, wherein the atleast one alignment component is a mating plate, wherein the matingplate is configured to mate with a corresponding component on the radio,wherein the adaptor housing includes control electronics, wherein thecontrol electronics include a printed circuit board (PCB) and a powerconditioning module, and wherein the PCB is electrically connected tothe at least one voltage pin, wherein the PCB is electrically connectedto the at least one input connector via at least one cable, wherein thepower conditioning module is configured to receive an input voltage, andwherein the power conditioning module is further configured to supply anoutput voltage, wherein the at least one input connector is configuredto connect to a DC power source, and wherein the layer of heat-shieldingor blocking, heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material isfunctionally positioned between the adaptor plate assembly and thecontrol electronics.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention includes a directcurrent (DC) power adaptor including an adaptor plate assembly, anadaptor housing, and a layer of heat-shielding or blocking,heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material, wherein theadaptor plate assembly includes an adaptor plate, at least one alignmentcomponent, at least one input connector, and at least one voltage pin,wherein the adaptor plate assembly is mounted to the adaptor housing,wherein the adaptor plate assembly is configured to receive a radio,wherein the at least one alignment component is a mating plate, whereinthe mating plate is configured to mate with a corresponding component onthe radio, wherein the adaptor housing includes control electronics,wherein the control electronics include a printed circuit board (PCB), avoltage sensing circuit, and a communications interface, and wherein thePCB is electrically connected to the at least one voltage pin, whereinthe PCB is electrically connected to the at least one input connectorvia at least one cable, wherein the at least one input connector isconfigured to connect to a DC power source, wherein the communicationsinterface is configured to communicate information related to a state ofcharge of the DC power source to a network, and wherein the layer ofheat-shielding or blocking, heat-dissipating and/or heatsignature-reducing material is functionally positioned between theadaptor plate assembly and the control electronics.

The military uses various types of portable battery-operated radios andhandheld digital devices for reconnaissance. The Handheld ISRTransceiver, such as those manufactured by, for example, L3Communications, Raytheon Company, Harris Corporation, and CoastalDefense, Inc., is one example of such handheld digital devices. ThePRC-148 radio and the PRC-152 radio are examples of military-specportable battery-operated radios. The battery for the PRC-148 hascertain unique features for mounting and locking the base of the radioto the battery. The battery for the PRC-152 has certain other uniquefeatures for mounting and locking the base of the radio to the battery.The battery for the Handheld ISR Transceiver has certain other uniquefeatures for mounting and locking the base of the device to the battery.

There are many circumstances in which it may be beneficial to replacethe battery of either type of radio, or the Handheld ISR Transceiver,with a DC power adaptor. The PRC-148 radio requires a battery having afirst set of features and providing a first output voltage range.Similarly, the PRC-152 radio requires a battery having a second set offeatures and providing a second output voltage range. Further still, theHandheld ISR Transceiver would requires a battery having a third set offeatures and providing a third output voltage range. As the first outputvoltage range, the second output voltage range, and the third outputvoltage range all overlap, military personnel interchange thesebatteries when possible. However, these batteries generally provide abattery to device mismatch. For example, the PRC-152 radio has anoperating voltage range of 10V to 14.5V. The battery often used to powerthe PRC-152 radio has an output voltage range of 8V to 12.6V. Becausethe radio cannot operate at voltage lower than 10V, the battery used topower the radio only has a functional output voltage range of 10V to12.6V. Thus, the whole charge capacity of the battery is not usable,resulting in a reduced weight to run time ratio. Therefore, militarypersonnel are required to carry additional batteries, which increasesthe carrying load of the military personnel. Soldiers often carry 60-100lbs. of gear in their rucksack or attached to their vest. Additionalweight slows soldiers down and also makes it more likely that they willsuffer injuries to their body (e.g., injuries to the back, shoulders,hips, knees, ankles, and feet). Advantageously, the present inventionprovides a significantly increased weight to run time ratio because thewhole battery charge capacity of the external DC power source isavailable to power the radio. Further, changing the batteries morefrequently is time consuming, and requires stopping communications,switching the battery, and restarting communications. This process isdangerous for the entire team because communications are interrupted.

Another problem with DC power adaptors used with radios is highfrequency interference. This can result from wires with a nylon sheathand no shielding. The wires with the nylon sheath and no shielding actsimilarly to an antenna, thereby creating high frequency interference.Generally, a radio operator has a dual communications system with afirst radio (e.g., to communicate with a first group), a second radio(e.g., to communicate with a second group), and a headset connected tothe first radio and the second radio. The dual communications systemcreates a circuit between the first radio, the headset, the secondradio, and the battery used to power the first radio and the secondradio that interferes with performance of the dual communications systembecause the circuit creates an unintended antenna. Due to the circuitcreated, the radio operator experiences interference in audio betweenthe radios, whereas typically the audio would be separated. This causesan issue with communications that can negatively affect a militaryoperation. Unshielded wires with a nylon sheath or an improperlyshielded cable also create interference. Therefore, there is a need toprevent radio interference during military operations.

Another issue faced by radio operators is that some radios areconfigured to zero out if they are out of power for longer than a settime period (e.g., 15 minutes). Most radios include a Hold Up Battery(HUB) battery operable to sustain secure programming on the radio forthe set time period to prevent the radio from zeroing out. The HUBbattery has a fixed lifetime (e.g., 50 hours), and the HUB battery mayreach the fixed lifetime without the operator being alerted. If a radiois zeroed out, then the radio must be reprogrammed (e.g., by themanufacturer) and/or data must be redownloaded to the radio. This is aproblem if a radio operator is in a hostile environment and loses accessto critical information. Thus, there is a need for a power adaptoroperable to provide power to a radio using alternative power sources(e.g., rechargeable battery) if a battery is too low to power the radioor is otherwise malfunctioning. Advantageously, the universal DC poweradaptor protects the radio from zeroing out even if the HUB batterydies.

In some aspects, the present invention provides a universal DC poweradaptor for coupling one of a Handheld ISR Transceiver, a PRC-148 radio,a PRC-152 radio (e.g., a PRC-152A), a PRC-161 radio, a PRC-163 radio, aSADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, a TacRover-E (TRE) radio, a TacticalROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio, a Coastal Defense MVR-IV video down linkreceiver, and/or a Persistent Systems Wave Relay 1MPU5 radio to anexternal DC power source. In a preferred embodiment, the external DCpower source is remoted away from the radio. Advantageously, this allowsthe radio to be powered by a larger DC power source (e.g., battery) witha greater capacity, and therefore increasing the overall run time. Thisalso provides greater ergonomic comfort, as the operator is able tocarry a larger weight and a larger size not on a front side of the body(e.g., in a rucksack, in a pouch positioned on a back side of the body).Additionally, some radios (e.g., PRC-152, PRC-163) have an antenna thatis positioned close to an operator's face when worn on the front of thebody. Further, some radios require more than one antenna (e.g., MPU-5),which are positioned close to an operator's face when worn on the frontof the body. The universal DC power adaptor has a lower height than abattery, which advantageously prevents the antenna from hitting theoperator in the face.

In one embodiment, the universal DC power adaptor includes an adaptorhousing and an adaptor plate assembly mounted to the adaptor housing.The adaptor plate assembly further includes an adaptor plate, a pair ofmating plates, and at least one alignment component. The universal DCpower adaptor further includes a printed circuit board (PCB) and aninput connector electrically coupled to the printed circuit board. Inone embodiment, the printed circuit board includes control electronics.In one embodiment, the PCB is electrically connected to the outputvoltage pins via at least one wire. In one embodiment, the pair ofmating plates and at least one alignment component are affixed to thetop surface of the adaptor plate and are configured to substantiallyalign with corresponding features of the Handheld ISR Transceiver, thePRC-148 radio, the PRC-152 radio, the PRC-161 radio, the PRC-163 radio,the SADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, the TacRover-E (TRE) radio, theTactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio, the Coastal Defense MVR-IV video downlink receiver, and/or the Persistent Systems Wave Relay 1MPU5 radio suchthat any of the devices are operable to twist and lock into the adaptorplate assembly, thereby mechanically coupling the device to the poweradaptor and electrically coupling the device to the output voltage pins.The input connector is configured to couple to any number of externalpower sources, including non-rechargeable batteries, rechargeablebatteries, or other types of DC power sources.

In another embodiment, the power adaptor includes at least one sidelocking feature and/or at least one hole or detent. The at least onelocking feature is operable to engage with the Handheld ISR Transceiver,the PRC-148 radio, the PRC-152 radio, the PRC-161 radio, the PRC-163radio, the SADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, the TacRover-E (TRE) radio,the Tactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio, the Coastal Defense MVR-IV videodown link receiver, and/or the Persistent Systems Wave Relay MPU5 radioto facilitate mechanical coupling.

In one embodiment, the control electronics include a controller and apower conditioning module. The power conditioning module is configuredto receive a certain input voltage and output a second voltage fallingwithin a range acceptable for each of the Handheld ISR Transceiver, thePRC-148 radio, the PRC-152 radio, the PRC-161 radio, the PRC-163 radio,the SADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, the TacRover-E (TRE) radio, theTactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio, the Coastal Defense MVR-IV video downlink receiver, and/or the Persistent Systems Wave Relay MPU5 radio. Inone embodiment, the control electronics further include a wiredinput/output port or a wired or wireless communications interfaceconfigured to facilitate programming of the controller and/or the powerconditioning module. In one embodiment, the power conditioning moduleincludes a DC-DC converter.

Another aspect of the universal DC power adaptor is that it includescontrol electronics that are programmable. The control electronics areoperable to receive and send power control instructions. The universalDC power adaptor is operable receive different input voltages and stillgenerate the required output voltage needed to satisfy the Handheld ISRTransceiver, the PRC-148 radio, the PRC-152 radio, the PRC-161 radio,the PRC-163 radio, the SADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, the TacRover-E(TRE) radio, the Tactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio, the Coastal DefenseMVR-IV video down link receiver, and/or the Persistent Systems WaveRelay MPU5 radio based on the power control instructions.

In some embodiments, the present invention provides a universal DC poweradaptor for a Handheld ISR Transceiver, a PRC-148 radio, a PRC-152radio, a PRC-161 radio, a PRC-163 radio, a SADL MicroLite (RT-1922)radio, a TacRover-E (TRE) radio, a Tactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio, aCoastal Defense MVR-IV video down link receiver, and/or a PersistentSystems Wave Relay MPU5 radio, and methods of using the same. Theuniversal DC power adaptor allows the Handheld ISR Transceiver, thePRC-148 radio, the PRC-152 radio, the PRC-161 radio, the PRC-163 radio,the SADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, the TacRover-E (TRE) radio, theTactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio, the Coastal Defense MVR-IV video downlink receiver, and the Persistent Systems Wave Relay MPU5 radio to beconnected to an external DC power source (e.g., a remote external DCpower source) instead of using their respective batteries. Namely, theuniversal DC power adaptor includes mounting and locking features thatare common to each of the Handheld ISR Transceiver, the PRC-148 radio,the PRC-152 radio, the PRC-161 radio, the PRC-163 radio, the SADLMicroLite (RT-1922) radio, the TacRover-E (TRE) radio, the TacticalROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio, the Coastal Defense MVR-IV video down linkreceiver, and/or the Persistent Systems Wave Relay MPU5 radio, and othersimilar devices. Additionally, the universal DC power adaptor includesmounting and locking features that are unique to the Handheld ISRTransceiver, while at the same time including mounting and lockingfeatures that are unique to the PRC-148 radio, while also at the sametime including mounting and locking features that are unique to thePRC-152 radio.

Further, the output voltage and power of the universal DC power adaptoris suitable for each of the Handheld ISR Transceiver, the PRC-148 radio,the PRC-152 radio, the PRC-161 radio, the PRC-163 radio, the SADLMicroLite (RT-1922) radio, the TacRover-E (TRE) radio, the TacticalROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio, the Coastal Defense MVR-IV video down linkreceiver, and/or the Persistent Systems Wave Relay MPU5 radio. Theuniversal DC power adaptor is operable to couple each of the HandheldISR Transceiver, the PRC-148 radio, the PRC-152 radio, the PRC-161radio, the PRC-163 radio, the SADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, theTacRover-E (TRE) radio, the Tactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio, theCoastal Defense MVR-IV video down link receiver, and/or the PersistentSystems Wave Relay MPU5 radio to an external DC power source (e.g., aremote external DC power source) in place of their respective batteries.The universal DC power adaptor is further operable to (1) accommodatedifferent mechanical key mechanisms of the respective Handheld ISRTransceiver, PRC-148 radio, PRC-152 radio, PRC 161-radio, PRC-163 radio,SADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, TacRover-E (TRE) radio, Tactical ROVER-P(SIR 2.5) radio, Coastal Defense MVR-IV video down link receiver, andthe Persistent Systems Wave Relay MPU5, and (2) accommodate differentoperating voltages of the respective Handheld ISR Transceiver, PRC-148radio, PRC-152 radio, PRC-161 radio, PRC-163 radio, SADL MicroLite(RT-1922) radio, TacRover-E (TRE) radio, Tactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5)radio, Coastal Defense MVR-IV video down link receiver, and thePersistent Systems Wave Relay MPU5.

Referring now to the drawings in general, the illustrations are for thepurpose of describing one or more preferred embodiments of the inventionand are not intended to limit the invention thereto.

FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 illustrate side views of an example of the universalDC power adaptor 100 for both the PRC-148 radio and the PRC-152 radio.FIG. 1 shows the universal DC power adaptor 100 in an assembled state.FIG. 2 shows one example the universal DC power adaptor 100 in adisassembled state. The universal DC power adaptor 100 includes anadaptor plate assembly 110 mounted on an adaptor housing 115. Theadaptor housing 115 is formed of any rigid, durable, lightweightmaterial, such as, but not limited to, molded plastic or metal (e.g.,aluminum, stainless steel). In another embodiment, the adaptor housingincludes aluminum. In one embodiment, the aluminum is machined.

In one embodiment, the adaptor plate assembly 110 is formed of apolymer. Generally, prior art DC adaptors are often formed of plasticand have issues with melting from heat generated by radios. In oneembodiment, the polymer has a melting point of at least 500° F. Inanother embodiment, the polymer has a melting point of at least 400° F.Advantageously, the higher melting point of the polymer prevents heatfrom the radio from melting the universal DC power adaptor. In oneembodiment, the adaptor plate assembly includes an acrylonitrilebutadiene styrene (ABS) material. In one embodiment, the adaptor plateassembly is formed of a glass fiber reinforced resin. In one embodiment,the glass fiber reinforced resin is a heat stabilized, black polyamide66 resin. In one embodiment, the glass fiber is ZYTEL® 70G33L NC010. Inanother embodiment, the adaptor plate assembly is configured to have astress breaking point of about 200 MPa, a strain at break of about 3.5%,a flexural modulus of about 9300 MPa, a flexural strength of about 290MPa, and/or a tensile modulus of about 10,500 MPa.

In one embodiment, the adaptor plate assembly 110 includes an adaptorplate 120, a pair of mating plates 125 (e.g., mating plates 125 a and125 b), a printed circuit board (PCB) 130, and an input connector 135that is electrically coupled to the PCB 130. In another embodiment, thePCB includes control electronics. The PCB 130 further is electricallyconnected to a set of voltage output pins 145 (see FIG. 3 and FIG. 4).In one embodiment, the PCB 130 is electrically connected to the voltageoutput pins 145 via at least one wire (not shown). In yet anotherembodiment, the present invention includes a flexible wire or cable 140that is operable to electrically couple the input connector 135 to thePCB 130. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible wire or cable 140includes a ferrite collar.

The adaptor plate 120 is formed of any rigid, durable, lightweightmaterial, such as, but not limited to, molded plastic or metal (e.g.,aluminum). The mating plates 125 are formed of any rigid, durable,lightweight material, such as, but not limited to, metal (e.g.,aluminum, stainless steel, gold). The mating plates 125 are preferablyformed of a conductive and robust material (e.g., stainless steel). Inone example, the universal DC power adaptor has an overall length ofabout 2.6 inches, an overall width of about 1.5 inches, and an overallheight of about 1.48 inches. Batteries used with the radios often havean overall height greater than 3 inches (e.g., 3.28 inches). Aspreviously described, connecting the universal DC power adaptor toremote an external DC power source reduces the overall height profile ofthe radio, antenna, and power source when compared to using a battery,which is advantageous as it keeps the antenna from hitting an operatorin the face.

The input connector 135 is operable to mate to an external DC powersource (e.g., a remote external DC power source). Consequently, the typeof input connector 135 depends on the mating connector of the externalDC power source. The external DC power source includes, but is notlimited to, portable battery packs, portable power cases, rechargeablebatteries, non-rechargeable batteries, and similar devices. Examples ofa portable battery pack are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,780,344,10,461,289, and 10,531,590, and U.S. Patent Publication Nos.20180258882, 20190109349, 20200099023, and 20200187379, each of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Examples of a portablepower case are described in U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 20180102656,20180062197, and 20190081493, each of which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

In one embodiment, the input connector 135 is preferably a lockingconnector. In one embodiment, the input connector 135 is a TAJIMIR04-p5m connector. Advantageously, this allows the input connector 135to mate with a mating connector on an external DC power source (e.g.,rechargeable battery, non-rechargeable battery) in a locking fashion,thereby preventing communications from being disrupted by a looseconnection.

In one embodiment, the PCB 130 includes an isolator to prevent radiointerference caused by the circuit created between the first radio, theheadset, the second radio, and the battery used to power the first radioand the second radio. In one embodiment, the isolator includes at leastone diode to allow current to flow in a single direction.

As previously described, in one embodiment, the universal DC poweradaptor includes at least one cable with shielding. The presentinvention has a ground plane all the way through the PCB 130.Advantageously, the at least one cable with the shielding prevents radiointerference caused by the unshielded cable acting as an antenna.

FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 show perspective views of a portion of the adaptorplate assembly 110 of the universal DC power adaptor. FIG. 3 and FIG. 4show views of the adaptor plate 120 with the mating plates 125 affixedthereto. In one embodiment, each of the mating plates 125 a and 125 b isaffixed to the adaptor plate 120 with a screw. In another embodiment,the adaptor plate assembly includes at least one mating clip on eachside of the adaptor plate assembly. For example, and not limitation, theat least one mating clip is welded, glued, or otherwise permanentlyaffixed to the adaptor plate assembly. The at least one mating clipallows for the mating plates to attach to the adaptor plate. The adaptorplate 120 also includes four through-holes 150 (e.g., one at eachcorner) that are used for screwing the adaptor plate 120 to the adaptorhousing 115.

In another embodiment, the cross-sectional footprint and dimensions ofthe universal DC power adaptor substantially correspond to those of thePRC-152 radio 500 (FIG. 5) and the PRC-148 radio 600 (FIG. 6). Further,the mating plates 125 a (FIG. 3) and 125 b (FIG. 3) and the alignmentcomponents 155 (FIG. 3) of the universal DC power adaptor are designedto receive and engage with the mating plate 515 of the PRC-152 radio 500(FIG. 5) and the mating plate 615 of the PRC-148 radio 600 (FIG. 6). Forexample, in one embodiment, the edges of the two mating plates aredesigned to receive and engage with the first end 520 and the second end525, respectively, of the mating plate 515 of the PRC-152 radio 500(FIG. 5). Likewise, the edges of the two mating plates are designed toreceive and engage with the first end 620 and the second end 625,respectively, of the mating plate 615 of the PRC-148 radio 600 (FIG. 6).Once engaged, the voltage output pins of the universal DC power adaptorsubstantially align with and electrically couple to the voltage inputpins 535 of the PRC-152 radio 500 (FIG. 5) or the voltage input pins 635of the PRC-148 radio 600 (FIG. 6).

In another embodiment, the mating plates are arranged with respect tocertain alignment components and with respect to the voltage outputpins. The at least one alignment component is any type of features orrails for guiding the base portion of the PRC-148 radio or the PRC-152radio onto the adaptor plate of the universal DC power adaptor. Namely,the alignment components are designed to substantially matchcorresponding features of the PRC-148 radio and the PRC-152 radio thatallow the radios to twist and lock into the adaptor plate assembly.

As shown in FIG. 3, the voltage output pins 145 are arranged at thecenter region of adaptor plate 120 and between the mating plates 125 aand 125 b. In a preferred embodiment, the voltage output pins 145 arearranged in a pedestal structure 160 such that there is electricalisolation between the voltage output pins 145. In another embodiment,the voltage output pins 145 are arranged at about the pivot point of thePRC-148 radio and the PRC-152 radio when twisted and locked into theadaptor plate assembly. The position of the voltage output pins 145 isprovided to substantially align with the corresponding voltage inputpins 535 of the PRC-152 radio as shown in FIG. 5 and the correspondingvoltage input pins 635 of the PRC-148 radio as shown in FIG. 6. In oneembodiment, a center pin of the voltage output pins 145 of the universalDC power adaptor is configured for data communication, and a top pin anda bottom pin of the voltage output pins 145 are configured for poweroutput (e.g., both positive) from the universal DC power adaptor to theradio. In a preferred embodiment, an O-ring is positioned around thepedestal structure 160 to protect an electrical connection between thevoltage output pins 145 and the voltage input pins on the radio fromenvironmental elements (e.g., water).

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a base portion 510 of a PRC-152radio 500 that is operable to mount to the universal DC power adaptor.The base portion 510 of the PRC-152 radio 500 includes a mating plate515 that has a first end 520 and a second end 525. Further, there is anopening 530 at the center portion of the mating plate 515. Voltage inputpins 535 (e.g., three voltage input pins 535) are arranged in theopening 530 of the mating plate 515, as shown. Additionally, a movablelocking clip 540 is provided on one side of the body of the PRC-152radio 500. Conventionally, the mating plate 515, the voltage input pins535, and the movable locking clip 540 are used for coupling arechargeable battery (not shown) to the base portion 510 of the PRC-152radio 500. The mating plate 515, the voltage input pins 535, and themovable locking clip 540, however, are operable to couple the universalDC power adaptor to the base portion 510 of the PRC-152 radio 500 inplace of the rechargeable battery.

In one embodiment, the universal DC power adaptor is operable todisengage from the PRC-152 radio by disengaging the movable locking clipof the PRC-152 radio from the side locking feature of the universal DCpower adaptor and then twisting the PRC-152 radio with respect to theuniversal DC power adaptor to disengage the mating plates. Similarly,the universal DC power adaptor is operable to disengage from the PRC-148radio by disengaging the spring-loaded button key of the PRC-148 radiofrom the hole or detent of the universal DC power adaptor and thentwisting the PRC-148 radio with respect to the universal DC poweradaptor to disengage the mating plates.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a base portion 610 of a PRC-148radio 600 that mounts to the universal DC power adaptor. The baseportion 610 of the PRC-148 radio 600 includes a mating plate 615 thathas a first end 620 and a second end 625. Further, there is an opening630 at the center portion of the mating plate 615. Voltage input pins635 (e.g., three voltage input pins 635) are arranged in the opening 630of the mating plate 615, as shown. Additionally, a spring-loaded buttonkey 640 is provided on the bottom surface of the body of the PRC-148radio 600. Conventionally, the mating plate 615, the voltage input pins635, and the spring-loaded button key 640 are operable to couple arechargeable battery (not shown) to the base portion 610 of the PRC-148radio 600. In another embodiment, the mating plate 615, voltage inputpins 635, and spring-loaded button key 640, are operable to couple theuniversal DC power adaptor to the base portion 610 of the PRC-148 radio600 in place of the rechargeable battery.

Referring now to FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, certain features of the PRC-152radio 500 and of the PRC-148 radio 600 are substantially the same. Forexample, the cross-sectional footprint and dimensions of the baseportion 510 of the PRC-152 radio 500 are substantially the same as thecross-sectional footprint and dimensions of the base portion 610 of thePRC-148 radio 600. Further, the features of the mating plate 515 of thePRC-152 radio 500 are substantially the same as the features of themating plate 615 of the PRC-148 radio 600. Further still, with respectto the mating plate 515 of the PRC-152 radio 500 and with respect to themating plate 615 of the PRC-148 radio 600, the number and position ofthe voltage input pins 535 and the number and position the voltage inputpins 635, respectively, are substantially the same.

However, certain other features of the PRC-152 radio 500 and the PRC-148radio 600 are unique, i.e., not substantially the same. For example, themovable locking clip 540 on one side of the PRC-152 radio 500 is uniqueonly to the PRC-152 radio 500. Further, the spring-loaded button key 640on the bottom surface of the body of the PRC-148 radio 600 is uniqueonly to the PRC-148 radio 600. The PRC-161 has a similar body to thePRC-148, and the PRC-163 has a similar body to the PRC-152.

Accordingly, the universal DC power adaptor includes features foraccommodating these unique features as shown in FIGS. 3-4. In oneembodiment, the adaptor plate 120 further includes a pair of sidelocking features 165. Namely, a side locking feature 165 a on one end ofthe adaptor plate 120 and a side locking feature 165 b on the other endof the adaptor plate 120. The two side locking features 165 are designedto engage with the movable locking clip 540 of the PRC-152 radio 500(FIG. 5). Two side locking features 165 are provided so that the PRC-152radio can be oriented in any way for coupling to the universal DC poweradaptor 100. This is advantageous as it allows the operator to positionthe cable in such a way as to minimize mechanical interference with theradio's controls, adaptors, and antennas. However, in anotherembodiment, the universal DC power adaptor includes only one sidelocking feature. This embodiment of the universal DC power adaptor isconfigured so the PRC-152 radio is only operable to attach to theuniversal DC power adaptor in a specific orientation.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 4, the adaptor plate 120 includes a pairof holes or detents 170. Namely, a hole or detent 170 a on one end ofthe adaptor plate 120 and a hole or detent 170 b on the other end of theadaptor plate 120. The two holes or detents 170 are designed to engagewith the spring-loaded button key 640 of the PRC-148 radio 600 (FIG. 6).Two holes or detents 170 are provided so that the PRC-148 radio can beoriented in any way for coupling to the universal DC power adaptor 100.However, in another embodiment, the universal DC power adaptor includesonly one hole or detent. In this case, the universal DC power adaptor isconfigured so the PRC-148 radio is only operable to attach to theuniversal DC power adaptor in a specific orientation.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the adaptor plate 120 without matingplates. FIG. 8A shows a top view of the adaptor plate 120 according toone embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8B illustrates across-sectional side view taken along line A-A of the top view of theadaptor plate according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG.8C illustrates a side view of the adaptor plate according to oneembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8D illustrates an end view ofthe adaptor plate according to one embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 8E illustrates a bottom view of the adaptor plate according to oneembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 shows a top view of theadaptor plate 120 according to one embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the adaptor plate 120, takenalong line A-A of FIG. 9. FIG. 11 shows a side view of the adaptor plate120 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 showsmore details of the end view of the adaptor plate 120. FIG. 12 shows acable slot 175 that is operable to receive the flexible wire or cable140. FIG. 13 shows a bottom view of the adaptor plate 120 according toone embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of an example of the adaptor housing115. The adaptor housing 115 includes a plurality of holes 118. Theplurality of holes 118 align with the through-holes from the adaptorplate assembly for joining (i.e., with a screw) the adaptor plateassembly to the adaptor housing 115. FIG. 15 shows a bottom view of anexample of the adaptor housing 115. FIG. 16 shows an end view of anexample of the adaptor housing 115. FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional viewof an example of the adaptor housing 115, taken along line A-A of FIG.16.

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of another example of the adaptorhousing 115. Advantageously, the adaptor housing 115 shown in FIG. 18includes rounded corners that prevent snagging of pouches and otherdevices that are used simultaneously with the universal DC poweradaptor. FIG. 19 illustrates a bottom view of another example of theadaptor housing 115 according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 20 shows a cross-sectional view of the adaptor housing115, taken along line B-B of FIG. 19. FIG. 21 shows a detailed view ofthe adaptor housing 115.

The universal DC power adaptor is preferably sized to attach to a radioand remain flush against a side of the radio. In one embodiment, theuniversal DC power adaptor is sized so as not to interfere with aconnector (e.g., a 32-pin connector) that extends downward on the sideof the radio.

In one embodiment, the present invention includes a gasket functionallypositioned between the adaptor plate assembly and the adaptor plateassembly. FIG. 22 illustrates a gasket 200 according to one embodimentof the present invention. The gasket 200 includes a plurality ofcorresponding holes 205. The plurality of corresponding holes 205 alignwith the plurality of holes in the adaptor housing and the through-holesfrom the adaptor plate assembly for joining (i.e., with a screw) theadaptor plate, the gasket, and the adaptor housing. Advantageously, thisallows for the universal DC power adaptor to be used in a plurality ofharsh environments. In one embodiment, the gasket includes anelastomeric material (e.g., rubber, silicone).

FIG. 23 illustrates one embodiment of a universal DC power adaptorincluding a gasket 200, a heat-shielding or blocking, heat-dissipatingand/or heat signature-reducing material layer 250, and a flexibleomnidirectional lead including a spring 220. Additional details aboutthe flexible omnidirectional lead are in FIG. 24. The gasket 200 isfunctionally positioned between the adaptor plate assembly 110 and theadaptor housing 115. The PCB 130 is electrically connected to thevoltage output pins 145 via at least one wire 210.

In one embodiment, the universal DC power adaptor includes aheat-shielding or blocking, heat-dissipating and/or heatsignature-reducing material layer or coating. In one embodiment, theheat-shielding or blocking, heat-dissipating and/or heatsignature-reducing material layer or coating further includesanti-static, anti-radio frequency (RF), anti-electromagneticinterference (EMI), anti-tarnish, and/or anti-corrosion materials andproperties. In a preferred embodiment, a heat-shielding or blocking,heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material layer 250 isfunctionally positioned between the adaptor plate assembly and thecontrol electronics within the adaptor housing 115. Advantageously, thisembodiment prevents heat transfer between the radio, which generates alarge amount of heat, and the control electronics in the adaptor housing115. Additionally or alternatively, the heat-shielding or blocking,heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material layer orcoating covers an interior surface of the adaptor housing 115.Advantageously, this protects the control electronics in the adaptorhousing 115 from external heat.

The heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing layer 250 is anymaterial that is suitable for dissipating heat from and/or reducing theheat signature of electronic devices and/or clothing. Theheat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing layer 250 is from about20 μm thick to about 350 μm thick in one example. In particularembodiments, the heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing layer250 has a thickness ranging from about 1 mil to about 6 mil, including,but not limited to, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 mil, or about 25 μm to about150 μm, including, but not limited to, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, and 150 μm.Examples of the heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing layer250 include anti-static, anti-radio frequency (RF), and/oranti-electromagnetic interference (EMI) materials, such as coppershielding plastic or copper particles bonded in a polymer matrix, aswell as anti-tarnish and anti-corrosion materials. A specific example ofthe heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing layer 250 is theanti-corrosive material used in Corrosion Intercept Pouches, catalognumber 034-2024-10, available from University Products Inc. (Holyoke,Mass.). The anti-corrosive material is described in U.S. Pat. No.4,944,916 to Franey, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.Such materials preferably include copper shielded or copper impregnatedpolymers including, but not limited to, polyethylene, low-densitypolyethylene, high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene.In another embodiment, the heat shielding or blocking, heat-dissipating,and/or heat signature-reducing layer 250 is a polymer with aluminumand/or copper particles incorporated therein. In particular, the surfacearea of the polymer with aluminum and/or copper particles incorporatedtherein preferably includes a large percent by area of copper and/oraluminum. By way of example and not limitation, the surface area of theheat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing layer 250 includes about25% by area copper and/or aluminum, 50% by area copper and/or aluminum,75% by area copper and/or aluminum, or 90% by area copper and/oraluminum. In one embodiment, the heat shielding or blocking,heat-dissipating, and/or heat signature-reducing layer 250 issubstantially smooth and not bumpy. In another embodiment, the heatshielding or blocking, heat-dissipating, and/or heat signature-reducinglayer 250 is not flat but includes folds and/or bumps to increase thesurface area of the layer. Alternatively, the heat-shielding orblocking, heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing layer 250includes a fabric having at least one metal incorporated therein orthereon. The fabric further includes a synthetic component, such as byway of example and not limitation, a nylon, a polyester, or an acetatecomponent. Preferably, the at least one metal is selected from the groupconsisting of copper, nickel, aluminum, gold, silver, tin, zinc, ortungsten.

In one embodiment, the universal DC power adaptor includes at least oneflexible omnidirectional lead as shown in FIG. 24. In one embodiment, anexterior gasket 230 and an interior gasket 232 are provided around eachof the at least one flexible omnidirectional lead to seal an interior ofthe universal DC power adaptor from the external environment. Eachflexible omnidirectional lead has a connector portion (e.g., inputconnector 135) and a wiring portion (e.g., flexible wire or cable 140).The input connector 135 is any type or style of connector needed to mateto the equipment to be used with the universal DC power adaptor. In apreferred embodiment, the input connector 135 is a female circular typeof connector (e.g., female FISHER 105 A087 connector, TAJIMI part numberR04-P5f). In yet another embodiment, the input connector 135 has anIngress Protection (IP) rating of IP2X, IP3X, IP4X, IP5X, IP6X, IPX1,IPX2, IPX3, IPX4, IPX5, IPX6, IPX7, or IPX8. More preferably, the inputconnector 135 has an IP rating of IPX6, IPX7, or IPX8. IP ratings aredescribed in IEC standard 60529, ed. 2.2 (May/2015), published by theInternational Electrotechnical Commission, which is incorporated hereinby reference in its entirety. In one embodiment, the input connector 135meets standards described in Department of Defense documentsMIL-STD-202E, MIL-STD-202F published February 1998, MIL-STD-202Gpublished 18 Jul. 2003, and/or MIL-STD-202H published 18 Apr. 2015, eachof which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The flexible wire or cable 140 is fitted into a channel formed in theuniversal DC power adaptor (e.g., adaptor plate assembly 110) such thatthe input connector 135 extends away from the universal DC power adaptor(e.g., adaptor plate assembly 110). A spring 220 is provided aroundflexible wire or cable 140, such that a portion of spring 220 is insidethe universal DC power adaptor (e.g., adaptor plate assembly 110) and aportion of spring 220 is outside the universal DC power adaptor (e.g.,adaptor plate assembly 110). In one example, spring 220 is a steelspring that is from about 0.25 inches to about 1.5 inches long. Theflexible wire or cable 140 and the spring 220 are held securely in thechannel of the universal DC power adaptor (e.g., adaptor plate assembly110) via a clamping mechanism 222. Alternatively, the flexible wire orcable 140 and the spring 220 are held securely in the channel of theuniversal DC power adaptor (e.g., adaptor plate assembly 110) using anadhesive, a retention pin, a hex nut, a hook anchor, and/or a zip tie.In an alternative embodiment, the channel is formed in the adaptorhousing.

The presence of spring 220 around flexible wire or cable 140 allows thelead to be flexed in any direction for convenient connection toequipment from any angle. The presence of the spring 220 around theflexible wire or cable 140 also allows the lead to be flexed repeatedlywithout breaking or failing. The presence of the spring 220 furtherallows for the flexible wire or cable 140 to be flexed at anapproximately 90 degree angle flush against the radio, as the radio isoften worn in a radio pouch that does not have an opening to accommodatea flexible wire or cable. The design of the leads provides benefit overconventional leads and/or connectors that are rigid, whereinconventional rigid leads allow connection from one angle only and areprone to breakage if bumped.

In one embodiment, the flexible omnidirectional leads are attached tothe universal DC power adaptor via a panel mount pass through. In apreferred embodiment, the panel mount pass through is formed of metal(e.g., aluminum). Alternatively, the flexible omnidirectional leads areattached to the universal DC power adaptor with a panel mount gasket. Inone embodiment, the universal DC power adaptor includes the exteriorgasket 230 and/or the interior gasket 232 to seal the universal DC poweradaptor from environmental elements (e.g., dust, water). In oneembodiment, the gasket is formed of silicone or rubber. In anotherembodiment, a layer of heat shrink tubing is placed around the wiringportion before the spring is placed around the wiring portion. The heatshrink tubing is preferably flexible. Advantageously, the heat shrinktubing provides additional waterproofing for the universal DC poweradaptor.

In one embodiment, the flexible omnidirectional lead includes a dust cap235. The dust cap 235 is configured to protect the input connector 135from environmental elements (e.g., water, dust, dirt). In a preferredembodiment, the dust cap 235 is molded into a boot of the inputconnector 135. Advantageously, the input connector 135 is configured tooperate after exposure to dirt, even if the dust cap 235 is removed.This allows for soldiers to continue to use the universal DC poweradaptor in dirty and/or dusty environments.

In another embodiment, the adaptor plate assembly includes a secondcable (e.g., flexible omnidirectional lead) and/or a connector on thatis configured to connect to a second electronic device. In oneembodiment, the second cable is on a same side as the first cable. Inanother embodiment, the second cable is on a different side (e.g.,opposite side) than the first cable.

In one embodiment, the adaptor plate assembly includes a universalserial bus (USB) receptacle. In one embodiment, the USB receptacle is onan opposite side of the first cable in the adaptor plate assembly. Inone embodiment, the USB receptacle is on a side of the adaptor plateassembly. In another embodiment, the USB receptacle 260 is positioned ona top side of the adaptor plate assembly 110 as shown in FIG. 25. TheUSB receptacle 260 is positioned such that it is not blocked when aradio is mated to the universal DC power adaptor. In one embodiment, thecontrol electronics include a DC-DC converter that converts the inputvoltage to 5V for the USB receptacle.

FIG. 26 illustrates a block diagram of control electronics 1800 of theuniversal DC power adaptor according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. The control electronics 1800 are implemented on the PCB usingstandard PCB technology. The control electronics 1800 include, forexample, a controller 1810 and a power conditioning module 1815.

The controller 1810 can be any standard controller or microprocessordevice that is capable of executing program instructions. The powerconditioning module 1815 can be any power conditioning circuitry thatreceives a certain DC input voltage V_(IN) within an expected inputvoltage range and generates a desired DC output voltage V_(OUT). In oneembodiment, the power conditioning module 1815 includes a DC-DCconverter. In one embodiment, the DC-DC converter is operable to managecurrent fluctuations of the radio. Generally, a radio will need anincreased current when powering on, transmitting, and/or connecting to anetwork. When the radio requires this additional current, the universalDC power adaptor has a current range operable to provide the radio withan amperage increase.

The input of the power conditioning module 1815 (i.e., the DC inputvoltage V_(IN)) is driven by an external DC voltage source 1850. Theexternal DC voltage source 1850 can be any DC voltage source, such as,but not limited to, a non-rechargeable battery, a rechargeable battery(e.g., portable battery pack, NETT Warrior battery), and a DC powersupply.

The DC output voltage V_(OUT) of the power conditioning module 1815drives either the PRC-152 radio 500 or the PRC-148 radio 600. Theoperating voltage of the PRC-152 radio 500 is from about 10 VDC (e.g.,10±0.5 VDC to about 14.5±0.5 VDC), whereas the operating voltage of thePRC-148 radio 600 is from about 10 VDC to about 16.3 VDC. Given that thetwo operating voltage are slightly different, in one embodiment, the DCoutput voltage V_(OUT) of the universal DC power adaptor is a value thatis within the range of the overlapping portions of the two operatingvoltages. For example, the DC output voltage V_(OUT) of the universal DCpower adaptor is limited to a range from about 10 VDC to about 14.5 VDC,which is the operating voltage range of the PRC-152 radio 500. In oneexample, the DC output voltage V_(OUT) of the universal DC power adaptoris about 11.8±0.5 VDC. In another embodiment, the DC output voltageV_(OUT) of the power conditioning module 1815 drives the PRC-152 radio,the PRC-161 radio, the PRC-163 radio, the SADL MicroLite (RT-1922)radio, the TacRover-E (TRE) radio, the Tactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio,the Coastal Defense MVR-IV video down link receiver, or the PersistentSystems Wave Relay MPU5 radio. In one embodiment, the V_(OUT) is betweenabout 9.6 VDC to about 34.3 VDC. Alternatively, the V_(OUT) is betweenabout 9 VDC to about 16 VDC. In yet another embodiment, the V_(OUT) isabout 8 VDC to about 28 VDC.

In another embodiment, the DC input voltage V_(IN) of the universal DCpower adaptor, which is supplied by the external DC voltage source 1850,can be, for example, from about 11.2 VDC±3% to about 17 VDC±3%. In thisexample, the power conditioning module 1815 converts the DC inputvoltage V_(IN), which can range from about 11.2 VDC±3% to about 17VDC±3%, to about 11.8±0.5 VDC. Because the DC input voltage V_(IN) canvary, at certain times the power conditioning module 1815 is convertinga lower input voltage to a higher output voltage, at others times thepower conditioning module 1815 is converting a higher input voltage to alower output voltage, and at yet others times the input voltage of thepower conditioning module 1815 is substantially the same as the outputvoltage.

The controller 1810 and the power conditioning module 1815 of thecontrol electronics 1800 are programmable. In the aforementionedexample, the power conditioning module 1815 is programmed to receivefrom about 11.2 VDC±3% to about 17 VDC±3% and then generate about11.8±0.5 VDC. In another embodiment, the power conditioning module 1815is operable to receive from about 25 VDC±3% to about 30 VDC±3% and thengenerate about 11.8±0.5 VDC. The programmability of the universal DCpower adaptor allows it to be used with different external DC voltagesources.

In one example, the input connector and the flexible wire or cable 140is used as a communication link to the controller 1810 and/or the powerconditioning module 1815. In another example, a separate wiredinput/output (I/O) port (not shown) is used as a communication link tothe controller 1810 and/or the power conditioning module 1815. In yetanother example, the control electronics 1800 includes a communicationsinterface 1820. The communications interface 1820 includes any wiredand/or wireless communication interface for connecting to a network (notshown) and by which information is exchanged with other devices (notshown) connected to the network. Examples of wired communicationinterfaces include, but are not limited to, USB ports, RS232 connectors,RJ45 connectors, Ethernet, and any combinations thereof. Examples ofwireless communication interfaces include, but are not limited to, anIntranet connection, Internet, ISM, BLUETOOTH® technology, WI-FI,WI-MAX, IEEE 802.11 technology, radio frequency (RF), Infrared DataAssociation (IrDA) compatible protocols, Local Area Networks (LAN), WideArea Networks (WAN), Shared Wireless Access Protocol (SWAP), anycombinations thereof, and other types of wireless networking protocols.

FIG. 27 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of the controlelectronics for a state of charge indicator incorporated into theuniversal DC power adaptor. In this example, the control electronics1800 includes a voltage sensing circuit 1825, an analog-to-digitalconverter (ADC) 1830, a processor 1835, the indicator 1840, andoptionally a driver 1845.

The voltage sensing circuit 1825 can be any standard voltage sensingcircuit, such as those found in volt meters. An input voltage V_(IN) issupplied via the power bus. In one embodiment, the voltage sensingcircuit 1825 is designed to sense any direct current (DC) voltage in therange of from about 0 volts DC to about 50 volts DC. In one embodiment,the voltage sensing circuit 1825 includes standard amplification orde-amplification functions for generating an analog voltage thatcorrelates to the amplitude of the input voltage V_(IN) that is present.The ADC 1830 receives the analog voltage from the voltage sensingcircuit 1825 and performs a standard analog-to-digital conversion.

The processor 1835 manages the overall operations of the SOC indicator.The processor 1835 is any controller, microcontroller, or microprocessorthat is capable of processing program instructions.

The indicator 1840 is any visual, audible, or tactile mechanism forindicating the state of charge of an external DC power source mated tothe universal DC power adaptor. A preferred embodiment of a visualindicator is at least one 5-bar liquid crystal display (LCD), whereinfive bars flashing or five bars indicates greatest charge and one bar orone bar flashing indicates least charge. Another example of a visualindicator is at least one seven-segment numeric LCD, wherein the number5 flashing or the number 5 indicates greatest charge and the number 1 orthe number 1 flashing indicates least charge. Alternatively, the atleast one LCD displays the voltage of the external DC power source matedto the universal DC power adaptor as measured by the controlelectronics.

The at least one LCD is preferably covered with a transparent material.In a preferred embodiment, the cover is formed of a clear plastic (e.g.,poly(methyl methacrylate)). This provides an extra layer of protectionfor the at least one LCD, much like a screen protector provides an extralayer of protection for a smartphone. This increases the durability ofthe at least one LCD. The universal DC power adaptor includes awaterproof sealant (e.g., silicone) around the cover.

Alternatively, a visual indicator is at least one LED. One preferredembodiment of a visual indicator is a set of light-emitting diodes(LEDs) (e.g., 5 LEDs), wherein five lit LEDs flashing or five lit LEDsindicates greatest charge and one lit LED or one lit LED flashingindicates least charge. In one embodiment, the LEDs are red, yellow,and/or green. In one example, two of the LEDs are green to indicate amostly full charge on the external DC power source mated to theuniversal DC power adaptor, two of the LEDs are yellow to indicate thatcharging and/or replacement will soon be required for the external DCpower source mated to the universal DC power adaptor, and one LED is redto indicate that the external DC power source mated to the universal DCpower adaptor is almost drained. In a preferred embodiment, at leastthree bars, lights, or numbers are used to indicate the state of charge.

In one embodiment, the at least one LED is preferably covered with atransparent material. In a preferred embodiment, the cover is formed ofa clear plastic (e.g., poly(methyl methacrylate)). This provides anextra layer of protection for the at least one LED. This increases thedurability of the at least one LED. The universal DC power adaptorincludes a waterproof sealant (e.g., silicone) around the cover.

One example of an audible indicator is any sounds via an audio speaker,such as beeping sounds, wherein five beeps indicates greatest charge andone beep indicates least charge. Another example of an audible indicatoris vibration sounds via any vibration mechanism (e.g., vibration motorused in mobile phones), wherein five vibration sounds indicates greatestcharge and one vibration sound indicates least charge.

One example of a tactile indicator is any vibration mechanism (e.g.,vibration motor used in mobile phones), wherein five vibrations indicategreatest charge and one vibration indicate least charge. Another exampleof a tactile indicator is a set of pins that rise up and down to be feltin Braille-like fashion, wherein five raised pins indicates greatestcharge and one raised pin indicates least charge.

In one example, the processor 1835 is able to drive the indicator 1840directly. In one embodiment, the processor 1835 is able to drivedirectly a 5-bar LCD or a seven-segment numeric LCD. In another example,however, the processor 1835 is not able to drive the indicator 1840directly. In this case, the driver 1845 is provided, wherein the driver1845 is specific to the type of indicator 1840 used in the controlelectronics 1800.

Additionally, the processor 1835 includes internal programmablefunctions for programming the expected range of the input voltage V_(IN)and the correlation of the value of the input voltage V_(IN) to what isindicated at the indicator 1840. In other words, the discharge curve ofthe external DC power source mated to the universal DC power adaptor canbe correlated to what is indicated at the indicator 1840. In oneembodiment, the processor 1835 is programmed based on a percentdischarged or on an absolute value present at the input voltage V_(IN).

As previously stated, in one embodiment, the control electronics 1800include a communications interface, which allows the universal DC poweradaptor to send information (e.g., state of charge information) to atleast one remote device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop computer,satellite phone) and/or receive information (e.g., software updates)from at least one remote device. The communications interface provideswireless communication, standards-based or non-standards-based, by wayof example and not limitation, radiofrequency, BLUETOOTH, ZIGBEE, NearField Communication, or similar commercially used standards.

FIG. 28 illustrates a block diagram of an example of an SOC system 2500that includes a mobile application for use with a universal DC poweradaptor. The SOC system 2020 includes a universal DC power adaptor 100having a communications interface 1820.

The communications interface 1820 is any wired and/or wirelesscommunication interface for connecting to a network and by whichinformation may be exchanged with other devices connected to thenetwork. Examples of wired communication interfaces include, but are notlimited to, USB ports, RS232 connectors, RJ45 connectors, Ethernet, andany combinations thereof. Examples of wireless communication interfacesinclude, but are not limited to, an Intranet connection, Internet, ISM,BLUETOOTH technology, WI-FI, WIMAX, IEEE 802.11 technology, radiofrequency (RF), Near Field Communication (NFC), ZIGBEE, Infrared DataAssociation (IrDA) compatible protocols, Local Area Networks (LAN), WideArea Networks (WAN), Shared Wireless Access Protocol (SWAP), anycombinations thereof, and other types of wireless networking protocols.

The communications interface 1820 is used to communicate, preferablywirelessly, with at least one remote device, such as but not limited to,a mobile phone 2520 or a tablet 2525. The mobile phone 2520 can be anymobile phone that (1) is capable of running mobile applications and (2)is capable of communicating with the universal DC power adaptor 100. Themobile phone 2520 can be, for example, an ANDROID phone, an APPLEIPHONE, or a SAMSUNG GALAXY phone. Likewise, the tablet 2525 can be anytablet that (1) is capable of running mobile applications and (2) iscapable of communicating with the universal DC power adaptor 100. Thetablet 2525 can be, for example, the 3G or 4G version of the APPLE IPAD.

Further, in SOC system 2500, the mobile phone 2520 and/or the tablet2525 is in communication with a cellular network 2550 and/or a network2560. The network 2560 can be any network for providing wired orwireless connection to the Internet, such as a local area network (LAN)or a wide area network (WAN).

An SOC mobile application 2530 is installed and running at the mobilephone 2520 and/or the tablet 2525. The SOC mobile application 2530 isimplemented according to the type (i.e., the operating system) of mobilephone 2520 and/or tablet 2525 on which it is running. The SOC mobileapplication 2530 is designed to receive SOC information from theuniversal DC power adaptor 100. The SOC mobile application 2530indicates graphically, audibly, and/or tactilely, the state of charge tothe user (not shown).

FIG. 29 illustrates a block diagram of an example of SOC system 2600 ofthe universal DC power adaptor that is capable of communicating with theSOC mobile application. In this example, the SOC system 2600 includes anSOC portion 2610 and a communications portion 2620. The SOC portion 2610is substantially the same as the control electronics 1800 shown in FIG.27. The communications portion 2620 handles the communication of the SOCinformation to the SOC mobile application at, for example, the mobilephone and/or the tablet.

The communications portion 2620 includes a communications processor 2630that is communicatively connected to the communications interface 1820.The digital output of the ADC 1830 of the SOC portion 2610, which is theSOC information, feeds an input to the processor 1935. The processor1835 can be any controller, microcontroller, or microprocessor that iscapable of processing program instructions. One or more batteries 2640provide power to the communications processor 2630 and thecommunications interface 1820. The one or more batteries 2640 can be anystandard cylindrical battery, such as quadruple-A, triple-A, ordouble-A, or a battery from the family of button cell and coin cellbatteries. A specific example of a battery 2640 is the CR2032 coin cell3-volt battery.

In SOC system 2600, the SOC portion 2610 and the communications portion2620 operate substantially independent of one another. Namely, thecommunications portion 2620 is powered separately from the SOC portion2610 so that the communications portion 2620 is not dependent on thepresence of the input voltage V_(IN) at the SOC portion 2610 for power.Therefore, in this example, the communications portion 2620 is operableto transmit information to the SOC mobile application at any time.However, in order to conserve battery life, in one embodiment theprocessor 2620 is programmed to be in sleep mode when no voltage isdetected at the input voltage V_(IN) at the SOC portion 2610 and to wakeup when an input voltage V_(IN) is detected. Alternatively, theprocessor 2610 is programmed to periodically measure the SOC and sendSOC information to the SOC mobile application on the at least one remotedevice periodically, such as every hour, regardless of the state ofinput voltage V_(IN).

FIG. 30 illustrates a block diagram of another example of controlelectronics 2700 of the universal DC power adaptor that is capable ofcommunicating with the SOC mobile application. In this example, theoperation of the communications interface 1820 is dependent on thepresence of a voltage at input voltage V_(IN). This is because, incontrol electronics 2700, the communications interface 1820 is poweredfrom the output of voltage sensing circuit 1825. Further, the processor1835 provides the input (i.e., the SOC information) to thecommunications interface 1820. A drawback of the control electronics2700 of FIG. 30 as compared with the SOC system 2600 of FIG. 26, is thatit is operable to transmit SOC information to the SOC mobile applicationonly when the external DC power source mated to the universal DC poweradaptor has a charge.

In another embodiment, the universal DC power adaptor is operable tointerface with software on the radio to provide a state of charge of theexternal DC power source. In one embodiment, the radio includes a systemmanagement bus (SMBus) protocol. In one embodiment, the universal DCpower adaptor is operable to transmit state of charge information to theradio via the center pin of the voltage output pins.

FIG. 31 illustrates a flow diagram of an example of a method 1900 ofusing the universal DC power adaptor for either the PRC-148 radio or thePRC-152 radio. The method 1900 includes, but is not limited to, thefollowing steps.

The first step 1910 includes providing a universal DC power adaptor.

The second step 1915 includes providing the PRC-148 radio or the PRC-152radio without its standard rechargeable battery.

The third step 1920 including placing the universal DC power adaptorinto contact with the base portion of the PRC-148 radio or the PRC-152radio.

During the fourth step 1925, using a twisting action, the lockingfeatures of the universal DC power adaptor engage with the correspondinglocking features of the PRC-148 radio or the PRC-152 radio. In oneexample, using a twisting action, the first end and the second end ofthe mating plate of the PRC-152 radio are engaged with the respectiveedges of the two mating plates of the universal DC power adaptor.Further, the movable locking clip of the PRC-152 radio is engaged withone of the two side locking features of the universal DC power adaptor.In another example, using a twisting action, the first end and thesecond end of the mating plate of the PRC-148 radio are engaged with therespective edges of the two mating plates of the universal DC poweradaptor. Further, the spring-loaded button key of the PRC-148 radio isengaged with one of the two holes or detents of the universal DC poweradaptor. In so doing, the voltage output pins of the universal DC poweradaptor are mechanically and electrically coupled to the voltage inputpins of the PRC-148 radio or the voltage input pins of the PRC-152radio.

During the fifth step 1930, an external DC power source is provided andelectrically coupled to the input of the universal DC power adaptor. Inone embodiment, the input connector of the universal DC power adaptor isconnected to a mating connector of the external DC voltage source.

During the sixth step 1935, the DC input voltage V_(IN) is received atthe input of the power conditioning module and then converted to therequired DC output voltage V_(OUT). In one example, the powerconditioning module converts a DC input voltage V_(IN) of from about11.2 VDC±3% to about 17 VDC±3% to a DC output voltage V_(OUT) of about11.8±0.5 VDC. The power adaptor is operable to supplied to the DC outputvoltage to the PRC-148 radio or the PRC-152 radio.

FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the inventionillustrating a computer system, generally described as 800, having anetwork 810, a plurality of computing devices 820, 830, 840, a server850, and a database 870.

The server 850 is constructed, configured, and coupled to enablecommunication over a network 810 with a plurality of computing devices820, 830, 840. The server 850 includes a processing unit 851 with anoperating system 852. The operating system 852 enables the server 850 tocommunicate through network 810 with the remote, distributed userdevices. Database 870 is operable to house an operating system 872,memory 874, and programs 876.

In one embodiment of the invention, the system 800 includes a network810 for distributed communication via a wireless communication antenna812 and processing by at least one mobile communication computing device830. Alternatively, wireless and wired communication and connectivitybetween devices and components described herein include wireless networkcommunication such as WI-FI, WORLDWIDE INTEROPERABILITY FOR MICROWAVEACCESS (WIMAX), Radio Frequency (RF) communication including RFidentification (RFID), NEAR FIELD COMMUNICATION (NFC), BLUETOOTHincluding BLUETOOTH LOW ENERGY (BLE), ZIGBEE, Infrared (IR)communication, cellular communication, satellite communication,Universal Serial Bus (USB), Ethernet communications, communication viafiber-optic cables, coaxial cables, twisted pair cables, and/or anyother type of wireless or wired communication. In another embodiment ofthe invention, the system 800 is a virtualized computing system capableof executing any or all aspects of software and/or applicationcomponents presented herein on the computing devices 820, 830, 840. Incertain aspects, the computer system 800 is operable to be implementedusing hardware or a combination of software and hardware, either in adedicated computing device, or integrated into another entity, ordistributed across multiple entities or computing devices.

By way of example, and not limitation, the computing devices 820, 830,840 are intended to represent various forms of electronic devicesincluding at least a processor and a memory, such as a server, bladeserver, mainframe, mobile phone, personal digital assistant (PDA),smartphone, desktop computer, netbook computer, tablet computer,workstation, laptop, and other similar computing devices. The componentsshown here, their connections and relationships, and their functions,are meant to be exemplary only, and are not meant to limitimplementations of the invention described and/or claimed in the presentapplication.

In one embodiment, the computing device 820 includes components such asa processor 860, a system memory 862 having a random access memory (RAM)864 and a read-only memory (ROM) 866, and a system bus 868 that couplesthe memory 862 to the processor 860. In another embodiment, thecomputing device 830 is operable to additionally include components suchas a storage device 890 for storing the operating system 892 and one ormore application programs 894, a network interface unit 896, and/or aninput/output controller 898. Each of the components is operable to becoupled to each other through at least one bus 868. The input/outputcontroller 898 is operable to receive and process input from, or provideoutput to, a number of other devices 899, including, but not limited to,alphanumeric input devices, mice, electronic styluses, display units,touch screens, signal generation devices (e.g., speakers), or printers.

By way of example, and not limitation, the processor 860 is operable tobe a general-purpose microprocessor (e.g., a central processing unit(CPU)), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a microcontroller, a DigitalSignal Processor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit(ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a Programmable LogicDevice (PLD), a controller, a state machine, gated or transistor logic,discrete hardware components, or any other suitable entity orcombinations thereof that can perform calculations, process instructionsfor execution, and/or other manipulations of information.

In another implementation, shown as 840 in FIG. 32, multiple processors860 and/or multiple buses 868 are operable to be used, as appropriate,along with multiple memories 862 of multiple types (e.g., a combinationof a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one ormore microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core).

Also, multiple computing devices are operable to be connected, with eachdevice providing portions of the necessary operations (e.g., a serverbank, a group of blade servers, or a multi-processor system).Alternatively, some steps or methods are operable to be performed bycircuitry that is specific to a given function.

According to various embodiments, the computer system 800 is operable tooperate in a networked environment using logical connections to localand/or remote computing devices 820, 830, 840 through a network 810. Acomputing device 830 is operable to connect to a network 810 through anetwork interface unit 896 connected to a bus 868. Computing devices areoperable to communicate communication media through wired networks,direct-wired connections or wirelessly, such as acoustic, RF, orinfrared, through an antenna 897 in communication with the networkantenna 812 and the network interface unit 896, which are operable toinclude digital signal processing circuitry when necessary. The networkinterface unit 896 is operable to provide for communications undervarious modes or protocols.

In one or more exemplary aspects, the instructions are operable to beimplemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combinationsthereof. A computer readable medium is operable to provide volatile ornon-volatile storage for one or more sets of instructions, such asoperating systems, data structures, program modules, applications, orother data embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functionsdescribed herein. The computer readable medium is operable to includethe memory 862, the processor 860, and/or the storage media 890 and isoperable be a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized ordistributed computer system) that store the one or more sets ofinstructions 900. Non-transitory computer readable media includes allcomputer readable media, with the sole exception being a transitory,propagating signal per se. The instructions 900 are further operable tobe transmitted or received over the network 810 via the networkinterface unit 896 as communication media, which is operable to includea modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transportmechanism and includes any delivery media. The term “modulated datasignal” means a signal that has one or more of its characteristicschanged or set in a manner as to encode information in the signal.

Storage devices 890 and memory 862 include, but are not limited to,volatile and non-volatile media such as cache, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM,FLASH memory, or other solid state memory technology; discs (e.g.,digital versatile discs (DVD), HD-DVD, BLU-RAY, compact disc (CD), orCD-ROM) or other optical storage; magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape,magnetic disk storage, floppy disks, or other magnetic storage devices;or any other medium that can be used to store the computer readableinstructions and which can be accessed by the computer system 800.

In one embodiment, the computer system 800 is within a cloud-basednetwork. In one embodiment, the server 850 is a designated physicalserver for distributed computing devices 820, 830, and 840. In oneembodiment, the server 850 is a cloud-based server platform. In oneembodiment, the cloud-based server platform hosts serverless functionsfor distributed computing devices 820, 830, and 840.

In another embodiment, the computer system 800 is within an edgecomputing network. The server 850 is an edge server, and the database870 is an edge database. The edge server 850 and the edge database 870are part of an edge computing platform. In one embodiment, the edgeserver 850 and the edge database 870 are designated to distributedcomputing devices 820, 830, and 840. In one embodiment, the edge server850 and the edge database 870 are not designated for distributedcomputing devices 820, 830, and 840. The distributed computing devices820, 830, and 840 connect to an edge server in the edge computingnetwork based on proximity, availability, latency, bandwidth, and/orother factors.

It is also contemplated that the computer system 800 is operable to notinclude all of the components shown in FIG. 32, is operable to includeother components that are not explicitly shown in FIG. 32, or isoperable to utilize an architecture completely different than that shownin FIG. 32. The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, elements,circuits, and algorithms described in connection with the embodimentsdisclosed herein are operable to be implemented as electronic hardware,computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate thisinterchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrativecomponents, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been describedabove generally in terms of their functionality. Whether suchfunctionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon theparticular application and design constraints imposed on the overallsystem. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality invarying ways for each particular application (e.g., arranged in adifferent order or partitioned in a different way), but suchimplementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing adeparture from the scope of the present invention.

The above-mentioned examples are provided to serve the purpose ofclarifying the aspects of the invention, and it will be apparent to oneskilled in the art that they do not serve to limit the scope of theinvention. By nature, this invention is highly adjustable, customizableand adaptable. The above-mentioned examples are just some of the manyconfigurations that the mentioned components can take on. Allmodifications and improvements have been deleted herein for the sake ofconciseness and readability but are properly within the scope of thepresent invention.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A direct current (DC) power adaptorcomprising: an adaptor plate assembly; an adaptor housing; and a layerof heat-shielding or blocking, heat-dissipating and/or heatsignature-reducing material; wherein the adaptor plate assembly includesan adaptor plate, at least one alignment component, at least one inputconnector, and at least one voltage pin; wherein the adaptor plateassembly is mounted to the adaptor housing; wherein the adaptor plateassembly is configured to receive a military radio; wherein the adaptorhousing includes control electronics, wherein the control electronicsinclude a printed circuit board (PCB), and wherein the PCB iselectrically connected to the at least one voltage pin; wherein the PCBis electrically connected to the at least one input connector via atleast one cable; wherein the at least one input connector is configuredto connect to a DC power source; wherein the layer of heat-shielding orblocking, heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material isfunctionally positioned between the adaptor plate assembly and thecontrol electronics; and wherein the military radio is a PRC-148 radio,a PRC-152 radio, a Handheld ISR Transceiver, a PRC-161 radio, a PRC-163radio, a SADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, a TacRover-E (TRE) radio,and/or a Tactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio.
 2. The DC power adaptor ofclaim 1, further including a gasket, wherein the gasket is functionallypositioned between the adaptor housing and the adaptor plate assembly.3. The DC power adaptor of claim 1, wherein the PCB includes anisolator.
 4. The DC power adaptor of claim 1, further including at leastone flexible omnidirectional lead, wherein the at least one flexibleomnidirectional lead includes the at least one input connector and theat least one cable, wherein a flexible spring is provided around the atleast one cable, wherein the at least one cable and the flexible springare held securely in the adaptor plate assembly such that a portion ofthe flexible spring is positioned inside the adaptor plate assembly anda portion of the flexible spring is positioned outside the adaptor plateassembly.
 5. The DC power adaptor of claim 1, wherein the at least onecable includes a ferrite collar.
 6. The DC power adaptor of claim 1,wherein the adaptor plate assembly includes a universal serial bus (USB)receptacle.
 7. The DC power adaptor of claim 1, wherein the adaptorplate assembly is formed of a glass fiber reinforced resin.
 8. The DCpower adaptor of claim 1, wherein the adaptor plate assembly includes atleast one hole operable to receive a spring-loaded button from themilitary radio.
 9. The DC power adaptor of claim 1, wherein the at leastone alignment component is a mating plate, wherein the mating plate isconfigured to mate with a corresponding component on the military radio.10. The DC power adaptor of claim 1, wherein the control electronicsinclude a power conditioning module, wherein the power conditioningmodule is configured to receive an input voltage, and wherein the powerconditioning module is further configured to supply an output voltage.11. The DC power adaptor of claim 10, wherein the output voltage iswithin a range of about 10 VDC to about 14.5 VDC.
 12. The DC poweradaptor of claim 10, wherein the input voltage has a range from about11.2 VDC±3% to about 17 VDC±3% or about 25 VDC±3% to about 30 VDC±3%.13. The DC power adaptor of claim 1, further including at least oneindicator for indicating a state of charge of the DC power source,wherein the at least one indicator is at least one light-emitting diode(LED) and/or at least one liquid crystal display (LCD).
 14. The DC poweradaptor of claim 1, wherein the control electronics include a voltagesensing circuit and a communications interface configured to communicateinformation related to a state of charge of the DC power source to anetwork.
 15. A direct current (DC) power adaptor comprising: an adaptorplate assembly; an adaptor housing; and a layer of heat-shielding orblocking, heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material;wherein the adaptor plate assembly includes an adaptor plate, at leastone alignment component, at least one input connector, and at least onevoltage pin; wherein the adaptor plate assembly is mounted to theadaptor housing; wherein the adaptor plate assembly is configured toreceive a military radio; wherein the at least one alignment componentis a mating plate, wherein the mating plate is configured to mate with acorresponding component on the military radio; wherein the adaptorhousing includes control electronics, wherein the control electronicsinclude a printed circuit board (PCB) and a power conditioning module,and wherein the PCB is electrically connected to the at least onevoltage pin; wherein the PCB is electrically connected to the at leastone input connector via at least one cable; wherein the powerconditioning module is configured to receive an input voltage, andwherein the power conditioning module is further configured to supply anoutput voltage; wherein the at least one input connector is configuredto connect to a DC power source; wherein the layer of heat-shielding orblocking, heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material isfunctionally positioned between the adaptor plate assembly and thecontrol electronics; and wherein the military radio is a PRC-148 radio,a PRC-152 radio, a Handheld ISR Transceiver, a PRC-161 radio, a PRC-163radio, a SADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, a TacRover-E (TRE) radio,and/or a Tactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio.
 16. The DC power adaptor ofclaim 15, wherein the output voltage is within a range of about 10 VDCto about 14.5 VDC.
 17. The DC power adaptor of claim 15, wherein theinput voltage has a range from about 11.2 VDC±3% to about 17 VDC±3%. 18.The DC power adaptor of claim 15, wherein the input voltage has a rangefrom about 25 VDC±3% to about 30 VDC±3%.
 19. The DC power adaptor ofclaim 15, further including a gasket, wherein the gasket is functionallypositioned between the adaptor housing and the adaptor plate assembly.20. A direct current (DC) power adaptor comprising: an adaptor plateassembly; an adaptor housing; and a layer of heat-shielding or blocking,heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material; wherein theadaptor plate assembly includes an adaptor plate, at least one alignmentcomponent, at least one input connector, and at least one voltage pin;wherein the adaptor plate assembly is mounted to the adaptor housing;wherein the adaptor plate assembly is configured to receive a militaryradio; wherein the at least one alignment component is a mating plate,wherein the mating plate is configured to mate with a correspondingcomponent on the military radio; wherein the adaptor housing includescontrol electronics, wherein the control electronics include a printedcircuit board (PCB), a voltage sensing circuit, and a communicationsinterface, and wherein the PCB is electrically connected to the at leastone voltage pin; wherein the PCB is electrically connected to the atleast one input connector via at least one cable; wherein the at leastone input connector is configured to connect to a DC power source;wherein the communications interface is configured to communicateinformation related to a state of charge of the DC power source to anetwork; wherein the layer of heat-shielding or blocking,heat-dissipating and/or heat signature-reducing material is functionallypositioned between the adaptor plate assembly and the controlelectronics; and wherein the military radio is a PRC-148 radio, aPRC-152 radio, a Handheld ISR Transceiver, a PRC-161 radio, a PRC-163radio, a SADL MicroLite (RT-1922) radio, a TacRover-E (TRE) radio,and/or a Tactical ROVER-P (SIR 2.5) radio.